Maryam Nawaz Launches South Asia’s "First-Ever Trackless Tram," Sparking Online Debate Over Its True Identity as a Bus

Maryam Nawaz Launches South Asia’s "First-Ever Trackless Tram," Faces Online Backlash

Lahore, Pakistan — In a bold move to modernize public transportation, Maryam Nawaz, the Chief Minister of Punjab, unveiled what she touted as South Asia’s “first-ever trackless tram” on Tuesday. The launch of the Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART) system, a fully electric and zero-emission vehicle, was met with enthusiasm from officials but quickly turned into a subject of ridicule on social media.

During the inaugural ride, Nawaz expressed her excitement about the new transportation option, which she claimed would revolutionize travel in Lahore. “Ladies and gentlemen, South Asia’s first-ever trackless tram is set to start its service in Lahore, Punjab under my leadership,” she announced, as she boarded the vehicle.

However, the online reaction was far from celebratory. A video of the launch quickly went viral, garnering over 2.6 million views on X (formerly Twitter). Many users were quick to point out that the so-called tram resembled a bus more than anything else.

“That’s a bus,” one user bluntly commented, while another quipped, “Still can’t think of a single advantage this fictional tram gives us over a regular bus except that it’s good for a Maryam Nawaz photoshoot and PR video.”

Critics were relentless, with one user stating, “Important reminder: There is no such thing as a trackless tram.” Another added, “I love how countries just reinvent buses and give them hi-tech sounding names like ‘autonomous rail-less transportation hypercarriage’ and shill accounts just eat it up.”

Understanding the Difference: Tram vs. Bus

To clarify the confusion, it’s essential to understand the distinction between trams and buses. Trams typically run on fixed tracks and are powered by electricity from overhead wires, while buses operate on regular roads, can change routes easily, and are usually powered by diesel, gas, or batteries. A trackless tram, therefore, is essentially a bus designed to mimic tram aesthetics and equipped with advanced technology.

Despite the backlash, the SART system boasts impressive specifications. Developed by Norinco International, it can transport up to 320 passengers in its three compartments, with the option to add a fourth coach to increase capacity to over 400.

As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether the trackless tram will win over skeptics or if it will be remembered as just another bus with a flashy name.